Advent Calendars facts
An advent calendar is a special calendar used to count the days of Advent in anticipation of Christmas. Originally, most advent calendars were Strictly religious and told the story of the Nativity. Today, advent calendars are a fun way for kids to countdown the days until Santa arrives! Most advent calendars have a colorful illustration with 24 numbered “doors” just waiting to be opened. Starting on December 1st, you may open one door each day until Christmas Eve. The door reveals a picture that tells a story or is related to Christmas. Other advent calendars have pockets or drawers that contain a piece of chocolate or even a toy.
The pocket or box advent calendars are also a great way to be green and reduce waste. Each year you can reuse the calendar by filling it up with new goodies. Here are some ideas for filling your advent calendar:
- Stickers
- Tattoos
- Candy necklaces or rings
- Rubber ducks or other small bath toys
- Bubbles
- A Slinky
- Wind-up toys
- Small model animals or dinosaurs
- Mini art supplies: crayons or a paint kit
- Mini flashlight or compass
- Bouncy balls
- Silly putty
- Read a Christmas book together
- Make hot chocolate with candy cane stirrers
- Paint an ornament for the tree
- Cut out paper snowflakes to decorate your room
- Decorate the Christmas tree
- Build and decorate a gingerbread house
- Bake and decorate cookies
- Go to a tree lighting or go look at Christmas lights
MERRYCHRISTMAS!